Just enjoying wine, with friends, on the porch

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Two Whistles on the Legs!

Last Thursday, I was stuck in bumper to bumper traffic downtown (Yosemite & Main) when I saw the wind take the hat off a guy. The hat swooped up into the air; it then came back down right towards a jogger who caught it as he ran. He didn’t even change his stride, and handed the hat back to the first guy. Now, I have to live the rest of my life knowing that I’ll never be as cool as that guy.

Terry noticed it had a nice aroma, I thought it smelled fruity. Larry said it was sweet, and called it ‘Nectar of the Gods’ while toasting the air (He was probably fantasying about sword fighting Joffery). Becky doesn’t usually like sweet wines, but she said this one’s good.

4 out of 5 stars from Vivino: “Hints of lime, green apple and a bit of sweetness of honey.”

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2011 Tarkettle Road Sauvignon Blanc $4.99

Elsewhere price $10.99

Becky liked the grapefruit she smelled and, by the power of suggestion, Steve tasted grapefruit 😉 It had a strong taste at first sip; we found that pairing this sauv blanc with raspberries made it mellower. Becky thought it would also go nicely with Teriyaki Chicken.

There’s a phenomenal equilibrium to this unconventional white. Bridging the gap between a fresh, crisp Californian Sauvignon Blanc, and the tropical elements typical to the New Zealand variety, this wine emits notes of kiwi, gooseberry, and hints of ripe starfruit. Following through a medium-bodied profile, suggestions of lime zest and meringue bring focus to this leaner entry, that finishes with a brevity seldom found at this price range. Brisk and beautiful, this is one that is not to be missed. (Wine Director: 91 Points)

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2007 Award Winning Covey Run Syrah $3.99

Elsewhere price $12.00

Terry commented that this one goes down real easy! Becky said, ‘Oh, this is good. It’s my favorite.’ I agreed, definitely my favorite of the night.

On-line review from Wine Legacy: Dark, soft and spicy with a deep red-purple hue. The nose, reminiscent of a Côte-Rôtie, is full of dark berry fruits with smoky oak and chocolate undertones. Rich flavors of rich plum and cherry flavors are complemented by soft tannins and a lingering finish. Goes well with grilled and roasted red meats. Due to its soft tannins, it can also be enjoyed with spicy Mexican and Asian dishes

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2010 Tarkettle Road Cabernet Sauvignon $9.99

Elsewhere price $19.99

Larry has really come to enjoy red wines! He identified the aroma of this Cab as current and black cherries and labeled it ‘Excellent’. Steve agreed, saying this was his favorite of the night. Terry tasted cherries, tart cherries. Joe said it had nice legs, meaning it was dry. Actually, he said: ‘Two whistles on the legs!’ I think that means he likes it.

Winemaker’s notes: “The correct canopy balance in the vineyard ensures that the berries develop the sweet blackberry dried cherry and cassis character while allowing for notes of tobacco tea and even a hint of forest floor to come through. American oak provides a touch of vanilla clove and baking spices. The finish is long and lingering. This wine should pair well with meat dishes grilled vegetables as well as many cheeses.”